Newcastle United’s latest acquisition Georginio Wijnaldum has told The Sun that last season was an exception and the club’s immediate ambitions must be a return to Europe via the Europa League.

The Magpies were officially the last Premier League club to make a new signing this summer, a situation which must have left a number of supporters worried prior to this weekend.

In spite of popular belief, owner Mike Ashley has seemingly given boss Steve McClaren the green light to spend on top quality players and Wijanldum’s arrival came at a cost of £14.7 million, according to The Sun.

With Anderlecht’s Aleksandar Mitrovic set to follow for a fee in the region of £13 million, as per The Sun, it appears that the Geordies are showing some ambition and new signing Wijnaldum has taken that on board.

“I want to bring Newcastle back to where they belong. Last year was an exception. Of course it is difficult to become champions but you must dare to dream,” the 24-year-old midfielder told The Sun.

“We must come higher in the league. We must go for the Europa League. That must be the start.”

Can Newcastle United challenge for a Europa League spot?

One way of entering the Europa League is via a domestic cup triumph, something the Magpies have failed to experience since lifting the FA Cup way back in 1955.

Tom Thorogood

I'm a 27 year old language teacher and writer based out in Mexico with a passion for football and swimming. I like to focus on the top European Leagues, especially La Liga, as well as the footballing development in Central and South America. My favourite teams include Derby County, Barcelona and Jagaures de Chiapas.